Austin is facing its coldest weather of the season, as an Arctic front sweeps through the region, bringing dangerously low temperatures and powerful winds. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Warning for the area, warning that wind chills could make it feel as cold as 5°F (-15°C). Officials are urging residents to stay indoors, limit travel, and take precautions to protect themselves and their homes as temperatures continue to drop. The combination of subfreezing temperatures and gusty winds will create life-threatening conditions for anyone exposed to the elements for too long.
How Cold Will It Get? Austin’s Weather Breakdown
As of Wednesday morning, temperatures in Austin are already hovering around 21°F (-6°C), with wind chills making it feel even colder. Throughout the day, the city will see a high of only 39°F (4°C), offering little relief from the Arctic air. Overnight, the situation will become even more dangerous, as temperatures drop to 19°F (-7°C). Winds will continue to howl at speeds of up to 40 mph, creating bitterly cold conditions that could lead to frostbite in as little as 30 minutes for those exposed. The cold snap will persist through Thursday and Friday, with temperatures struggling to climb above freezing.
Here’s what to expect in the coming days:
- Thursday, February 20 – Bitterly cold with increasing cloud cover. High: 40°F (4°C), Low: 28°F (-2°C).
- Friday, February 21 – Continued cold with cloudy skies and a chance of showers. High: 34°F (1°C), Low: 31°F (-1°C).
- Saturday, February 22 – Warmer but still chilly, with rain possible. High: 40°F (5°C), Low: 37°F (3°C).
- Sunday, February 23 – Finally, a break from the cold! Sunny and much warmer. High: 67°F (19°C), Low: 42°F (6°C).
How to Stay Safe During Austin’s Arctic Blast
With freezing temperatures and strong winds, residents must take precautions:
- Stay Indoors: Avoid unnecessary outdoor activities. If you must go outside, wear multiple layers, including gloves, a hat, and a scarf to cover exposed skin.
- Protect Your Pipes: The freezing temperatures could cause pipes to burst. Leave faucets dripping slightly to prevent freezing.
- Check on Vulnerable Individuals: The elderly, young children, and those with health conditions are especially at risk. Ensure they have adequate heat and warm clothing.
- Be Prepared for Power Outages: Strong winds and extreme cold could strain the power grid, leading to outages. Have flashlights, batteries, and extra blankets ready just in case.
- Keep Pets Safe: Bring pets indoors. If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them.
Final Warning: This Cold Could Be Deadly
With some of the coldest temperatures in recent years hitting Austin, officials are stressing the importance of preparation and caution. The next 48 hours will be critical, and those who fail to take this Arctic blast seriously could face severe consequences. Stay tuned to local weather alerts and emergency updates as conditions continue to evolve. This is not just another cold front—this is a serious weather emergency.